In an unexpected and thrilling turn of events, East Carolina University has made a statement that’s reverberating through Pirate Nation: Shavon Revel Jr., the Pirates’ top cornerback, has decided to return for the 2025 season, reaffirming his commitment to ECU’s championship aspirations. But that’s not the only twist — former ECU star cornerback, Jaquan McMillian, who declared for the NFL Draft after the 2023 season, has announced that he is returning to ECU for one final year, joining Revel to form a dynamic defensive duo.
The announcement was made in a joint press conference this morning, where both Revel and McMillian stood alongside head coach Blake Harrell, confirming the most significant decision in ECU football since Harrell’s promotion to head coach in late 2024. The decision to return is a powerful message not only about the individual players but about the collective vision for the team’s future — a vision focused on glory and redemption in the 2025 season.
“I’ve always said this place is home,” Revel began, addressing the media. “After talking with Coach Harrell and Jaquan, I realized that what we have here is something special. Jaquan and I know what it takes, and we’re coming back to finish what we started. This is about a championship. This is about Pirate pride.”
A Dynamic Cornerback Duo: Revel & McMillian
The return of Jaquan McMillian, who starred at ECU from 2019 to 2023 before declaring for the NFL Draft, is an unexpected and stunning development. McMillian, a two-time All-AAC cornerback, was projected to be a mid-round draft pick after his standout career at ECU. However, after considering his options and speaking with Coach Blake Harrell, McMillian opted to return to ECU for one final season to make one last run at a conference championship.
“The NFL will always be there,” McMillian said. “But there’s unfinished business here at ECU. I’ve got one more chance to play alongside my brothers, and I’m going to make the most of it. I’m coming back for the championship, and I know Shavon feels the same way.”
This news has already begun to stir excitement within the ECU fanbase, with social media lighting up under the hashtag #RevelMcMillian2025. Fans are eager to see one of the most feared cornerback tandems in college football reunite for a potential title run. The duo’s return not only strengthens ECU’s defense but also sends a loud message to their rivals: the Pirates are all-in for 2025.
What This Means for ECU Football
With Revel and McMillian back on the roster, ECU’s defense is poised to become one of the toughest in the AAC — and possibly the nation. Both players bring elite coverage skills, instincts, and leadership to the secondary, making them the backbone of what could be a dominant defense.
Coach Harrell’s decision to work closely with both players to bring them back speaks volumes about the program’s culture. “This program is about growth, hard work, and commitment to each other,” Coach Harrell emphasized. “These two have put in the work, and I’m confident they’ll lead this team to new heights.”
The Path to Glory
As ECU enters the 2025 season, expectations are high. The Pirates, who have been steadily climbing in the AAC standings under Coach Harrell, are now considered legitimate contenders for the conference title, and with the return of two elite cornerbacks, the defense will be even more formidable. Coupled with the return of a solid offensive core, ECU fans are gearing up for what could be a historic season.
